20 Jun GR 131 Tenerife: Walking the Historic Guanche Trail in 6 Stages
The GR 131 Tenerife, traditionally known as the Guanche Trail, is one of the most spectacular hiking routes in the Canary Islands. This long-distance trail crosses the island following ancient paths used for centuries by Tenerife’s first inhabitants, offering an experience that combines nature, history and physical challenge.
Completing this journey allows hikers to discover the island from a completely different perspective, crossing mountains, volcanoes, forests and rural landscapes that reveal the authentic essence of Tenerife.
What Is the GR 131 Tenerife?
The GR 131 is an international long-distance hiking route that connects the archipelagos of the Azores, Madeira and the Canary Islands through a network of historic trails.
In Tenerife, this route takes on a unique identity by following ancient paths once used by the Guanches, the island’s original inhabitants.
For this reason, the trail is also known as the Guanche Trail.
The route allows hikers to cross Tenerife in a unique way, linking some of the most important natural areas in the archipelago while showcasing an extraordinary variety of landscapes.
Why the Guanche Trail Is One of Tenerife’s Best Hiking Routes
Few trails provide such a complete overview of the island.
Throughout the journey, hikers experience:
- High mountain landscapes.
- Unique volcanic scenery.
- Extensive Canary pine forests.
- Rural areas of significant cultural value.
- Spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean.
This diversity makes the GR 131 very different from day hikes, allowing walkers to gain a deeper understanding of Tenerife’s geography and history.
A Journey Following the Footsteps of the Guanches
One of the most fascinating aspects of the GR 131 is its historical significance.
The paths used by hikers today served for centuries as essential communication routes for the island’s ancient inhabitants.
Walking these trails provides insight into how the Guanches travelled between different territories, using natural passes, mountain ridges and strategic routes across Tenerife.
As a result, the trail offers an important cultural dimension that perfectly complements the sporting challenge.
The GR 131 Tenerife Itinerary
Natour’s program allows hikers to complete this remarkable crossing through six carefully planned stages.
Each day reveals a different side of the island and gradually introduces some of Tenerife’s most iconic landscapes.
The itinerary passes through mountain areas, volcanic environments and historic trails that highlight the remarkable diversity of Tenerife’s terrain.
This combination of stages creates a balance between physical challenge and enjoyment of the surroundings.
Difficulty Level of the GR 131 Tenerife
The Guanche Trail is classified as a high-difficulty route (▲▲▲▲△).
Although it does not require advanced mountaineering skills, it does demand good physical fitness to complete several consecutive days of hiking.
The main factors influencing the difficulty are:
- The length of the stages.
- Significant accumulated elevation gain.
- The continuous nature of the multi-day trek.
- The variety of terrain.
For these reasons, it is especially recommended for hikers who are accustomed to medium- and long-distance routes.
Landscapes That Make This Trek Unique
One of the greatest attractions of the GR 131 is the incredible variety of scenery encountered along the way.
Mountains and Volcanic Ridges
Much of the route follows Tenerife’s highest areas, offering spectacular views across the island and the Atlantic Ocean.
The volcanic ridges reveal the geological forces that have shaped the landscape over millions of years.
Canary Pine Forests
Certain sections pass through extensive pine forests, one of the Canary Islands’ most characteristic ecosystems.
These forests provide shade, tranquillity and a pleasant contrast to the island’s drier areas.
Volcanic Landscapes
The constant presence of volcanic materials serves as a reminder of the island’s origins.
Lava flows, volcanic cones and vast volcanic plains accompany hikers throughout much of the journey.
Self-Guided Hiking: Freedom to Explore Tenerife
The GR 131 Tenerife program is offered as a self-guided hiking experience.
This format allows travellers to enjoy complete independence while benefiting from all the organisation needed to make the journey comfortable and safe.
The philosophy is simple: walk at your own pace while Natour takes care of the logistics.
Safe Navigation with Maps and GPX Files
Navigation is one of the most important aspects of a multi-day trek.
For this reason, the program includes:
- Detailed maps.
- Comprehensive stage descriptions.
- GPX files for GPS devices and smartphones.
This documentation allows hikers to follow the route confidently while enjoying the freedom of independent travel.
Transfers and Luggage Transport
One of the most appreciated features of the GR 131 program is its logistical convenience.
The program includes:
- Taxi or bus transfers when required.
- Pick-up services at the end of certain stages.
- Luggage transfers between accommodations.
This means hikers only need to carry a light daypack while their luggage is transported to the next hotel.
Accommodation in Charming Hotels
After each hiking day, travellers stay in carefully selected small hotels full of local character.
These accommodations provide an authentic experience of Tenerife’s hospitality and atmosphere.
Breakfast is also included, ensuring hikers start each day with plenty of energy.
The Advantages of Hiking the GR 131 at Your Own Pace
The self-guided format offers numerous advantages compared to other travel styles.
These include:
- Freedom to choose travel dates.
- The ability to walk at your own pace.
- A stronger connection with nature.
- No large organised groups.
- Greater flexibility throughout the journey.
It is a style of travel especially appreciated by hikers who value independence.
More Than a Sporting Challenge: A Cultural Experience
While the physical challenge is one of the route’s main attractions, the GR 131 offers much more.
Each stage provides opportunities to discover:
- The history of the ancient Guanches.
- Traditional rural life in Tenerife.
- Landscapes rarely seen by conventional tourists.
- Historic communication routes across the island.
This combination of nature and culture makes the journey particularly rewarding.
Key Facts About the GR 131 Tenerife
Quick Information
- Historic name: Guanche Trail.
- Duration: 6 stages.
- Difficulty: High (▲▲▲▲△).
- Starting price: from €1,030.
- Format: Self-guided hiking.
- Includes: Accommodation, breakfast, transfers, luggage transport, maps and GPX files.
Frequently Asked Questions About the GR 131 Tenerife
What is the Guanche Trail?
It is the traditional name given to the GR 131 in Tenerife because it follows ancient routes once used by the Guanches.
How many days are needed to complete the route?
Natour’s program is designed as a 6-stage journey.
Is it a difficult route?
Yes. It is considered a high-difficulty trek and requires good physical fitness.
Can it be done without a guide?
Yes. The program is self-guided and includes maps, technical documentation and GPX files.
What makes this route special?
Its unique combination of history, volcanic landscapes, nature and long-distance hiking.
Conclusion
The GR 131 Tenerife is far more than a hiking route. It is a journey through the history, geology and natural diversity of one of the most fascinating islands in the Canary archipelago.
For travellers seeking a multi-day trek that combines physical challenge, spectacular scenery and cultural authenticity, the Guanche Trail offers one of the finest hiking experiences available in Spain.